Medhat Elabd Interview
Under the visionary leadership of Medhat Elabd, ACME Group is rapidly emerging as one of the UAE’s top consultancy firms. With a focus on strategic innovation, regulatory expertise, and client-focused solutions, the firm offers tailored strategies that simplify complexity and drive sustainable growth. Backed by a multidisciplinary team and decades of experience, Medhat Elabd is steering ACME Group to redefine excellence in the region’s dynamic business landscape.
Blending Innovation with Expertise
We started the interview by asking, “What inspired your strategic vision to position ACME Group among the top consultancy firms in the UAE?”
Medhat Elabd replied, “My strategic vision was shaped by more than two decades of closely observing the evolving business landscape in the UAE. Having worked closely with industry leaders and managing tax strategies at Al Habtoor Group, I saw the need for a consultancy that challenges conventional norms. I wanted ACME Group to be a place where expertise meets customization, where clients receive tailored strategies, but tailored, strategic guidance that actually drives results. The UAE is fast becoming a global business hub, and I believed there was room for a firm that could combine technical excellence with a profound grasp of local regulations and economic dynamics. Our mission to simplify financial complexity and help clients grow sustainably is what continues to motivate me. By aligning the right talent, core values, and client-centricity, I’m confident we’ll achieve our goal of becoming one of the top ten consultancies in the region.”
From Al Habtoor to ACME
The Arab Today: How have your experiences at Al Habtoor Group shaped your leadership at ACME Group?
Medhat Elabd replied, “My time at Al Habtoor Group played a pivotal role in shaping my leadership approach. As Director of VAT and Corporate Tax, I was responsible for rolling out intricate tax structures across multiple business verticals. That role gave me a deep understanding of operational challenges, compliance complexities, and the importance of strategic planning. I also led stakeholder workshops, tax steering committees, and collaborated with the FTA, which sharpened both my technical and ability to communicate complex issues effectively. Today at ACME Group, I apply those lessons by encouraging clear, results-driven communication across our teams. I focus on aligning our strategic goals with client outcomes. I’ve also built a multidisciplinary environment where audit, tax, and financial advisory experts work collaboratively. The goal is always to provide holistic, proactive solutions rather than after-the-fact consulting. Leadership, for me, is about cultivating a culture rooted in accountability, innovation, and operational excellence, all of which I had the opportunity to refine during my tenure at Al Habtoor.”
Strategic Partners in Growth
The Arab Today: What differentiates ACME Group in the competitive consultancy market of the Middle East?
Medhat Elabd replied, “What truly sets ACME Group apart is our bespoke, interdisciplinary model. We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Every client—whether a startup or a multinational—has unique challenges, and we tailor our strategies accordingly. Our strength lies in a team that combines strong regional insights with global standards in tax, finance, and governance. Unlike many consultancies, we place equal weight on regulatory compliance and performance—ensuring our clients are not just legally protected but also financially optimized. We’ve also invested heavily in innovation, particularly in pricing models and MIS reporting, to add transparency and measurable value. Beyond the technical side, we prioritize long-term partnerships and trust-building. We take time to understand our clients’ long-term goals and become true partners in their growth journey. In a market as dynamic as the UAE, being agile, reliable, and forward-thinking makes all the difference—and that’s where ACME Group consistently delivers.”
The Power of Collaboration
The Arab Today: Can you elaborate on how your multidisciplinary team contributes to solving complex business challenges?
Medhat Elabd replied, “Absolutely. Our multidisciplinary team is the backbone of ACME Group’s success. Each member brings domain-specific expertise—be it tax advisory, financial analysis, governance, or compliance. What makes our team effective is how we integrate these areas to deliver well-rounded solutions. For example, when working with a client facing both regulatory and operational challenges, we bring together our tax specialists, financial advisors, and audit professionals to develop a cohesive strategic plan. This internal collaboration allows us to identify underlying drivers of business challenges that may be financial, structural, or strategic. It also helps in proactive problem-solving, as we look at the client’s business through a multi-faceted lens. I’m proud to say that we foster a culture of mutual respect, continuous learning, open dialogue. This creates an environment where innovation flourishes and client needs are always at the center of our efforts.”
From Compliance to Competitive Edge
Lastly we asked, “How do you see the future of tax and financial consultancy evolving in the UAE, and how is ACME Group preparing for it?”
“The future of tax and financial consultancy in the UAE is driven by regulatory reforms and digital transformation. With the introduction of Corporate Tax and increasing compliance standards, businesses are demanding more than just advisory—they seek strategic partners with vision, agility, and insight. At ACME Group, we’re already moving in that direction. We’re investing in technology to streamline compliance, automate reporting and enable real-time insights. At the same time, we continue to build our team’s capabilities via structured professional development, certifications, and staying ahead of regulatory trends. I also believe the future belongs to firms that prioritize ESG, governance transparency, and business ethics, and we’re integrating these values into our operational ethos. Our goal is not just to react to changes, but to lead our clients through them with confidence and clarity. ACME Group is positioned not just to adapt to the future—but to be a driving force in its evolution.” Medhat Elabd concluded
Closing Statement:
At ACME Group, we are committed to building long-term relationships based on trust, transparency, and results. Our focus has always been on delivering practical solutions that create lasting value for our clients. As we look ahead, I remain confident in our ability to adapt, grow, and lead responsibly—while staying grounded in the values that define who we are. I’m proud of what we’ve achieved so far, and even more excited about what lies ahead.
Connect with Medhat Elabd on LinkedIn
Visit ACME Group to learn more about it
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